Dr. Aubrey Streit Krug from the Perennial Cultures Lab says: We have even more civic scientists now

Prof. Fanuel Muindi interviews Dr. Aubrey Streit Krug PhD, Director of the Perennial Cultures Lab at the Land Institute. Krug explains how the Institute’s Perennial Atlas project leverages civic science to transform agricultural research. By engaging everyday citizens—from backyard gardeners to professional farmers—the project gathers data on perennial grain crops. Aubrey explains that the approach “creates new options that are more sustainable ways to feed ourselves” by developing crops with “deeper, long, living, lasting root systems” that hold soil and filter water. She also reflects on the community’s impact, noting, “one thing that I have found especially inspiring is civic scientist dedication and persistence, even when the results aren’t what they might hope they would be.” The interview further explores topics such as participant training, long-term engagement, funding, and partnerships that empower communities and pave the way for a more sustainable food future.

Useful Links:

Land Institute

Perennial Atlas Project

Welcome to the Perennial Atlas Video

Perennial Atlas Project – Civic Science Webinar

Learn more about Aubrey Streit Krug

Fanuel Muindi

Fanuel Muindi is a former neuroscientist turned civic science ethnographer. He is a professor of the practice in the Department of Communication Studies within the College of Arts, Media, and Design at Northeastern University, where he leads the Civic Science Media Lab. Dr. Muindi received his Bachelor’s degree in Biology and PhD in Organismal Biology from Morehouse College and Stanford University, respectively. He completed his postdoctoral training at MIT.